HC Deb 07 January 2003 vol 397 c200W
Chris Grayling

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps the NHS takes to provide varied meal options in hospitals for patients from different ethnic backgrounds. [88765]

Mr. Lammy

Each hospital's menu should reflect the needs and preferences of all patients although the range of choice available will depend on the diversity of the local population. The new national health service menu format, launched in May 2001, includes a section for "Cultural and Religious Choices" which sets out example menus for halal, vegetarian, kosher and African-Caribbean meals.

During 2003, NHS Estates will be working with the NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency to tender for a national contract for supplying the NHS with halal, kosher and other authentic ethnic dishes.